Blackthorn Productions is a Guelph based company that specializes in medieval education and entertainment. Our purpose is to dispel common misconceptions about the middle ages. We endeavor do to this through the use of “living history presentations.” Our programs include festivals, live theatre, educational programs, workshops and customized presentations, Blackthorn Productions provides a complete, fun filled family oriented experience. Coincidentally, this time period is part of the current grade 4 social studies curriculum in Canadian elementary schools.

Ian Walsh is the founding Artistic Director and Earl of Blackthorn Productions. His interest in the middle ages and theatre has been with him since childhood so combining career with hobby seemed the right thing to do in 2004.

His experience in theatre spans 20 years with the occasional foray into film and television. This experience also includes a B.A. in theatre from the University of Windsor where he found his love for stage combat. This led to his study under various fight instructor, directors and masters through fight directors Canada and other fight associations from around the world. While in Windsor he also joined the Society for Creative Anachronism and the Essex Medieval Society furthering his love of all things medieval.

Since that time he has entertained children and adults of all ages across Southern Ontario through medieval demonstrations, Festivals, Workshops, Feasts and Plays. As well as Blackthorn Productions Ian works professionally in theatre and lives in Guelph with his wife Rebecca and their cat CJ.

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